Feeding Behavior

Searches for food by clambering about in vegetation above water, and jabbing downward with its long bill to capture prey at the water's surface. Sometimes flicks its wings open and shut, which may startle prey into motion. At especially good feeding sites, it may bend down reeds to build a hunting platform for itself.

Eggs

4-5, sometimes 2-7. Pale green or blue. Incubation is by both sexes, 17-20 days. Young: Both parents feed young, by regurgitation. In response to predators near nest, adult bird may make itself look larger by fluffing out its feathers and partially spreading wings. Legs and feet of young develop quickly, and young may leave nest as early as 6 days after hatching if disturbed; ordinarily remain in nest for about 2 weeks, and near nest for another week or more. 1 or 2 broods per year.

Young

Both parents feed young, by regurgitation. In response to predators near nest, adult bird may make itself look larger by fluffing out its feathers and partially spreading wings. Legs and feet of young develop quickly, and young may leave nest as early as 6 days after hatching if disturbed; ordinarily remain in nest for about 2 weeks, and near nest for another week or more. 1 or 2 broods per year.

Diet

Mostly fish and insects. Eats mostly small fish (such as minnows, sunfishes, and perch) and large insects (dragonflies and others); also crayfish, leeches, frogs, tadpoles, small snakes, and other items.

Nesting

Nests are usually widely scattered in marsh, but sometimes in loose colonies. In one South Carolina study, Least Bitterns often nested in close association with Boat-tailed Grackles. Nest: Site is well concealed in tall marsh growth. Nest (built mostly by male) is platform created by bending down marsh vegetation, adding sticks and grass on top.